Switzerland’s dramatic landscapes, towering peaks, and pristine lakes make it one of the most photogenic countries in the world. Whether you’re chasing the first golden light of dawn or the fiery hues of dusk, Switzerland offers countless breathtaking locations for photographers to capture the perfect shot. From iconic mountain summits to tranquil lakeshores, here are the best sunrise and sunset spots in Switzerland.

Best Sunrise Spots in Switzerland

1. Matterhorn View from Riffelsee

Location: Zermatt, Valais
Best Time: Early morning before sunrise

Riffelsee, a small alpine lake near Zermatt, offers one of the most iconic sunrise views in Switzerland. As the first light of the day touches the Matterhorn’s peak, the mountain’s reflection in the still water creates a mesmerizing scene.

Photography Tips:

• Arrive before sunrise to set up your composition.
• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the lake and the Matterhorn together.
• If conditions allow, capture the alpenglow effect on the peak.

2. First Cliff Walk – Grindelwald

Location: Grindelwald, Bernese Oberland
Best Time: 30 minutes before sunrise

The First Cliff Walk, a thrilling walkway along the cliffs of Grindelwald, provides an incredible vantage point for sunrise photography. From here, you can capture the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks bathed in the morning glow.

Photography Tips:

• A tripod is useful for capturing the soft morning light.
• Use a telephoto lens to highlight details on the mountain ridges.
• Be prepared for cool temperatures, even in summer.

3. Creux du Van

Location: Jura Mountains, Neuchâtel
Best Time: Before sunrise

Creux du Van, a natural amphitheater in the Jura Mountains, offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. As the sun rises, the light slowly reveals the dramatic limestone cliffs and rolling green meadows below.

Photography Tips:

• Arrive early to capture the mist that often lingers in the valley.
• Use leading lines from the cliffs to enhance depth in your images.
• Experiment with different angles to highlight the rock formations.

4. Oeschinensee

Location: Kandersteg, Bernese Oberland
Best Time: Just after sunrise

This glacial lake, surrounded by towering cliffs, is a dream location for photographers. The early morning light enhances the deep turquoise color of the water, and if you’re lucky, you might catch some mist rising from the lake.

Photography Tips:

• A polarizing filter helps reduce reflections and brings out the lake’s rich color.
• Try long-exposure shots to smooth out the water’s surface.
• Capture the surrounding peaks reflected in the lake.

5. Lake Sils

Location: Engadin, Graubünden
Best Time: Sunrise and golden hour

Lake Sils is one of Switzerland’s most tranquil locations for sunrise photography. The lake often remains perfectly still in the early morning, reflecting the surrounding mountains in a mirror-like effect.

Photography Tips:

• Arrive when the sky starts to brighten to capture the first light on the peaks.
• Use a neutral density filter for long-exposure shots of the water.
• Look for interesting foreground elements like rocks or boats.

Best Sunset Spots in Switzerland

1. Harder Kulm – Interlaken

Location: Interlaken, Bernese Oberland
Best Time: 30 minutes before sunset

Harder Kulm, known as the Top of Interlaken, offers a sweeping view of Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, and the Jungfrau region. At sunset, the lakes reflect the changing sky, creating a spectacular scene.

Photography Tips:

• Use a telephoto lens to capture the details of distant peaks.
• Experiment with different exposures to balance the bright sky and darker foreground.
• The observation deck provides a perfect leading line for compositions.

2. Lavaux Vineyards

Location: Lake Geneva region, Vaud
Best Time: Golden hour before sunset

The Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are stunning at sunset when the rolling hills and Lake Geneva shimmer in golden light. This location is perfect for capturing a mix of landscape and cultural photography.

Photography Tips:

• Use a wide-angle lens to showcase the vineyards, lake, and mountains together.
• Shoot during autumn when the vineyards turn golden.
• Play with perspective by including wine terraces in the foreground.

3. Mount Pilatus

Location: Near Lucerne
Best Time: 1 hour before sunset

One of the most famous peaks in central Switzerland, Mount Pilatus provides an unmatched view of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains at sunset. The rugged landscape becomes even more dramatic as the last light of the day casts long shadows.

Photography Tips:

• Capture the interplay of light and shadow on the mountain ridges.
• Use a telephoto lens to zoom in on the distant lakes and valleys.
• If conditions are right, include some foreground elements like wildflowers.

4. Schilthorn – Piz Gloria

Location: Bernese Oberland
Best Time: Sunset

Famous for its appearance in a James Bond movie, Schilthorn offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Alps. The peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau are particularly impressive at sunset.

Photography Tips:

• Look for clouds rolling through the valleys for added drama.
• A wide-angle shot captures the mountain panorama best.
• If visiting in winter, use a high dynamic range (HDR) setting to balance the bright sky and snowy foreground.

5. Zermatt & The Matterhorn at Sunset

Location: Zermatt, Valais
Best Time: Just before sunset

The Matterhorn is breathtaking at any time of day, but at sunset, its peak turns fiery orange, creating an unforgettable scene. One of the best viewpoints is from Gornergrat, which offers an elevated perspective.

Photography Tips:

• Use a telephoto lens to capture the glowing peak in detail.
• Try a silhouette shot with the Matterhorn against the sunset sky.
• Arrive early to find the best spot before the sun dips below the horizon.

Conclusion

Switzerland offers endless opportunities for photographers seeking stunning sunrise and sunset shots. Whether you’re capturing the first golden light hitting the Matterhorn or the vibrant hues over Lake Geneva’s vineyards, these locations provide some of the most breathtaking scenes in Europe.

Plan your visit around the best lighting conditions, experiment with different compositions, and take the time to enjoy the moment behind the lens. No matter where you go, Switzerland’s landscapes will reward you with unforgettable images.